How long should sex really last? – Research indicates that the average sex duration lasts for approximately 5 minutes and 24 seconds. However, it is not necessarily applicable to everyone. Sex duration depends on individual preferences and other factors such as age. Some want an intense experience in a short time, while others prefer the sexual intercourse to stretch for hours. In this article, we will explore the factors affecting duration and the other important aspects that need to be focused on more than the time. (how long should sex really last)
Table of Contents
Factors affecting the time of sexual intercourse
There are lots of factors that affect sexual intercourse. The following are the factors.
Age: As you age, your stamina decreases. It takes a longer time to become aroused. The hormonal changes in the body with age also affect the duration of sex.
Health conditions: Health conditions such as premature ejaculation or delayed ejaculation also affect the time a sexual intercourse lasts.
Mental health: If someone is suffering from anxiety, stress, and depression, it becomes difficult for him/her to focus and adversely affects the duration by making it short.
Sex goals: Some couples are open to different experiments, it may take a long time for them. The length of sexual intercourse is a personal choice and depends on understanding between partners.
Comfort: How much both individuals are comfortable with each other and the level of intimacy they have can prolong the duration of sex or vice-versa. (1)
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What research says about how long should sex really last?
In one study published in the Journal of sexual medicine, researchers found that intravaginal ejaculation latency time, i.e., the time from the intercourse session, lasts three to thirteen minutes on average.
By this study, they concluded that: (2)
- Two minutes or less –too short
- Three to seven minutes- adequate
- Seven to thirteen minutes – desirable
- Ten to thirty minutes- too long.
The studies do not have the same results. It has some limitations. The meaning of sex may be different from person to person. Some refer to it as vaginal penile penetration while others include foreplay, penile penetration and climax, the whole duration as sex. Here, the study refers sex as vaginal penetration.
The culture also has an influence on the ideal duration of sex. A study found that the heterosexual couple in Turkey has the shortest sex duration on average, of 3.7 minutes. (3) Hence, it is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all.
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What to do?
So, it is clear now that it varies from couple to couple how long sex will last. If you want to prolong or shorten the time of sex, here are some tips that you can adopt by tailoring them to what suits you best. (how long should sex really last)
Ways to prolong the time
- You can put more focus on foreplay, which will make your sex duration longer. You can try different positions and ways to make your intercourse better.
- Take breaks frequently when you are approaching orgasm.
- Controlling breathing can help you to stay calm, preventing premature climax.
Ways to shorten the time
- You can use tools, toys, and lubricants to make it easy to get an orgasm.
- You can use external things such as audio or visuals to reach orgasm quicker.
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Quality over quantity
It is not just about the time; you should focus more on the mutual satisfaction and emotional connection. Open and honest communication is key to this. It is important to understand your partner’s needs and preferences and make your sexual life happy and healthy. (1) (how long should sex really last)
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A note from kamarth
There is no definite time for what sex should last as it is more than just vaginal penetration. It depends completely on individual needs and preferences. You should not worry about the time; rather, it is more important to focus on enjoying sexual pleasure. (how long should sex really last)
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Some Additional Doubt
Question: What is the perfect duration of sex?
Answer: According to some studies, seven to thirteen minutes is desirable.
Question: Does long sex mean better sex?
Answer: It may not be true that emotional connection, mutual satisfaction hold more importance than duration of sex.
Question: How can I prolong the duration of sex?
Answer: Extended foreplay and practicing deep breathing, and performing Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles can help in increasing the duration.
Question: Do anxiety and depression affect how long sex lasts?
Answer: Yes, it leads to shortening the period of sexual intercourse.
Question: What is the average sex timing of a healthy man?
Answer: A man’s average ejaculation time might range from less than a minute to more than half an hour.
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